The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Total Confidence' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He joined Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing football, each day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated the player after his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have belied his age and inexperience.

"He is a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.

"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to do his normal game.

"He will continue to get opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned youth academy.

He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the choice to play for either country at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

He has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose La Roja, Diaz opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase future success.

Following his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he said following the win at Manchester.